endlich
finally
Expresses that something happens after a long wait, a delay, or a lot of effort. It is often associated with relief.
EXAMPLE
Endlich bist du da, wir haben schon auf dich gewartet!
You're finally here; we've been waiting for you!
endlich
finally / finite
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Meanings
endlich
finite
Means that something is limited and has an end; the opposite of infinite.
EXAMPLE
Das menschliche Leben ist endlich und sollte daher wertgeschätzt werden.
Human life is finite and should therefore be valued.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is derived from 'das Ende' (the end). This origin explains both meanings: reaching the 'Ende' (end) of a waiting period ('endlich!' — finally!) and having an 'Ende' (end), as in something being finite.
EXAMPLE
Endlich ist das Projekt fertig!
The project is finally finished!
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from its function in the sentence. As an adverb, it expresses relief ('Endlich ist Wochenende!' — It's finally the weekend!). As an adjective, it describes that something is limited ('Unsere Zeit ist endlich.' — Our time is finite.).
EXAMPLE
Endlich scheint die Sonne wieder.
The sun is finally shining again.
Emotional meaning
In the meaning 'schließlich' (finally), 'endlich' almost always conveys a strong emotion such as relief, joy, or even impatience. It emphasizes that one has waited a long time for something.
EXAMPLE
Der Zug kommt endlich, ich friere schon seit einer halben Stunde.
The train is finally coming; I've been freezing for half an hour.
Register and style
The meaning 'begrenzt' (limited/finite) is used mainly in formal, philosophical, or scientific contexts. In everyday language, this usage is less common.
EXAMPLE
Die Anzahl der möglichen Lösungen ist endlich.
The number of possible solutions is finite.
Compare with
endlich vs schließlich
finally / after all
Both words can express that something happens at the end of a longer process. „Endlich“ usually emphasizes relief or impatience after waiting. „Schließlich“ is more neutral and indicates the endpoint of a process or a final conclusion. Use „endlich“ when there is a strong sense of anticipation and „schließlich“ for a matter-of-fact sequence of events.
endlich
Nach drei Stunden Wartezeit kam der Bus endlich.
After waiting for three hours, the bus finally arrived.
schließlich
Nach mehreren Versuchen gelang der Start schließlich.
After several attempts, the launch eventually succeeded.
In real life
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